Metal stud roof deflection clip

ABSTRACT

An improved deflection clip for connecting metal stud walls to a structural building member, which accommodates relative compensating vertical movement, is disclosed. Some embodiments of the present invention allow for the deflection mounting clip to be set into place by metal barbs, eliminating the need for screwing the stud to the ceiling track runner, then subsequently removing the screws when the wallboard is installed. A deflection clip in accordance with the present invention has a flat base with left and right flanges substantially perpendicular to the base. Each flange has a number of triangular barbs facing externally to secure the deflection clip to the track without the need for temporary fixation.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

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REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX

Not applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention of this clip is an updated fastener to eliminate steps in the construction process of metal stud walls that underlay a roof structure that has deflection.

As a roof load increases, the affixed interior walls need the ability to accommodate this deflection without damage or separation. The same applies as the roof live load reduces and roof structure expands back to normal load stature. The system currently in use is the process of screwing the stud to the ceiling track runner; then subsequently removing the screws when the wallboard is installed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

With a clip fastening an interior metal wall framing stud to the top appropriated ceiling track, the labor to screw and to remove these screws is eliminated. The clip is pounded in place to the top track at the layout locations. The studs are inserted into the clip without fastening to the clip or top track. Essentially the top track and clip can slide on the stud as expansion or contraction and increased roof loads occur. The clip can also be pounded literally in either direction when successive work in the wall occurs causing them to be miss located. If damage occurs, the resulting correction is streamlined and simplified, thus minimizing costs.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

Not applicable

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The deflection mounting clip will be fastened to the appropriate deep leg top track, by pounding or pushing into place. It will be held in place by barbs lanced in place during the stamping process. The clips manufacturing will begin by being stamped out of light gauge steel, then pressed and forged to configuration. 

1-6. (canceled)
 7. A deflection clip comprising a substantially planar base having an inside surface and an outside surface; a first end portion extending perpendicular from the inside surface of the base having a superior surface, an inferior surface, an inside surface and an outside surface; a first flange extending outwardly from the inferior surface of the first end portion; at least one barb extending outward from the first flange; a second end portion extending perpendicular from the inside surface of the base having a superior surface, an inferior surface, an inside surface and an outside surface; a second flange extending outwardly from the inferior surface of the second end portion; and at least one barb extending outward from the second flange.
 8. The clip of claim 7 wherein the number of barbs on each flange is less than five.
 9. The clip of claim 7 wherein the barbs are resiliently deformable.
 10. The clip of claim 8 wherein the deflection clip is made from light gauge steel.
 11. The clip of claim 9 wherein the first and second flanges contain extension tabs perpendicular to the flanges and essentially parallel to the base.
 12. The clip of claim 11 wherein the deflection clip is manufactured from one flat integral piece of material.
 13. The clip of claim 11 wherein the deflection clip is made from a resiliently deformable material.
 14. The clip of claim 13 wherein the resilient material is light gauge steel. 